IN THIS ARTICLE

How does Laminaria work?

Laminaria contains iodide, but it isn't known how it might work.

Are there safety concerns?

Laminaria does not appear to be safe. It contains significant amounts of iodine and might adversely affect the thyroid gland when taken by mouth. Some laminaria products also contain significant amounts of arsenic.

The use of laminaria directly on the cervix during pregnancy or childbirth is unsafe. It can cause serious side effects for both mother and child including infection, rupture of the cervix, and infant death.

Do not use laminaria if:

You are pregnant or breast-feeding.

You have problems with your kidneys. It might cause dangerously high potassium levels.